Half-siblings Andi (Mariah Castle, at right) and Freddie (Joe Estlack) have an encounter in the woods in the Henrik Ibsen-inspired play “Little Erik,” getting its world premiere at the Aurora Theater in Berkeley. (David Allen/Aurora Theatre)

In “Little Erik,” a new twist on Ibsen’s “Little Eyolf,” no amount of high-tech riches can cushion a family from tragedy. Joie and Freddie build their dream house in the mountains with the dough they earned from the digital revolution, only to watch the dream turn to nightmare when their son drowns during a getaway. Mark Jackson directs this world premiere at Berkeley’s Aurora Theatre Company, which runs Friday through Feb. 28; $32-60; 510-843-4822, auroratheatre.org.
— Karen D’Souza, Staff

Christian Cagigal has become a favorite in the Bay Area for his artfully delivered shows that blend magic, trickery, storytelling and, as his publicity materials put it, “eerie alchemy.”

Just in time for Halloween, Cagigal brings a show titled “Obscura” to Aurora Theatre Company’s intimate Harry’s UpStage in Berkeley. It plays Oct. 15 through Nov. 2. Tickets are $28-$32; 510-843-4822, www.auroratheatre.org.